How to derive the del operator in spherical and cylindrical coordinates

[dexterdev]

Hi all,
Del = i ∂/∂x + j ∂/∂y + k ∂/∂z

in x y z cordinate

similarly I require to see the derivation of del in other coordinates too. Please give me a link for the derivation.

 

[chiro]

Hey dexterdev.

This subject is treated in co-ordinate free representations in a subject known as Tensor Algebra or Co-ordinate Invariant Calculus.

There are different viewpoints which range from the purely mathematical to the purely applied.

Some areas that study this are pure mathematics, physics (particular with general relativity), and engineering (particularly fluid and non-rigid body mechanics, statics, and dynamics).

What kind of treatment is closest to your needs?

 

[dexterdev]

Sir , what I require is for electromagnetics (using vector calculus)

 

[rollingstein]

Try Mary Boas. Great treatment there.

 

[dexterdev]

I don't have that book...

 

[jasonRF]

Here is one example:

http://www.physics.miami.edu/~nearing/mathmethods/

Many EM texbooks cover t his - check your school library. Also, other "math methods" books tend to cover this in one way or another.

jason